Refreshing or Revolting: 2020 Porsche 911

Sufficiently evolved or just more of the same?

2 January, 2019Alex Nishimoto Words

2 January, 2019Alex Nishimoto Words

Sufficiently evolved or just more of the same?

Every generation since the original Porsche 911 has gradually evolved the model’s sleek fastback design, and the latest model, dubbed the 992, is no exception. Though it may not look much different from the 991 it replaces, the 2020 Porsche 911 shares no body panels with its predecessor. In fact, looking at them side by side reveals a number of subtle differences. Take a look for yourself below to see how the 992 further evolves the 911’s classic shape.

Starting in the front, we can see the 2020 model features a different front fascia with wide intake openings covered by horizontal slats. The new model also features more prominent cut lines for the hood, front bumper, and fenders, which arguably make it look less streamlined than the 991. The headlights have been redesigned, though they retain Porsche’s characteristic four-point LED light signature.

From the side, the new 911 isn’t easily distinguishable from the model it replaces. The greenhouse shape is about the same as before, and as expected, the 911’s iconic profile hasn’t changed much. The door handles are now flush with the body, and the new taillight shape can be seen from the side if you look closely, though both lamps appear equally slender. One big change is the new standard 20-inch wheels and available 21-inchers. Large-diameter wheels have been available on top trim levels for years, but now 20s will be the norm. It’s also worth noting that the 992 is slightly longer than the 991 thanks to bigger overhangs.

In back, it’s easier to tell the new 911 apart from the old one. The first giveaway is the horizontal light bar that spans the entire rear end. The taillights are also more three-dimensional with deeper recesses carved out. Additionally, the lenses are now smoked for a blacked-out look. The rear valance mirrors the front, with vents at both corners in a wide black portion of the bumper. The dual exhaust tips have spread out a bit from their more central position on the last-gen Carrera. Lastly, all 911s will now be just as wide as the previous Carrera 4 and GTS in the back thanks to fatter wheel arches.

The interior is where you’ll notice the most differences. According to Porsche, the 992’s interior is inspired by the 911 of the 1970s. You can see this influence in the new model’s simplified dashboard design, which features more straight lines compared to the 991’s dash. While the previous model’s center stack flowed into a sloped center console, there’s now a more distinct separation between the two pieces. The central infotainment screen has been moved up in the dash, and is now wider than before. And of course, we can’t talk about the 992’s interior without mentioning the small, rectangular gear selector that resembles a Braun electric shaver.

What do you think of the 2020 Porsche 911’s design? Does it advance the model’s styling enough or is it just more of the same? Tell us in the comments on Facebook.